Blow the Man Down

A neo-noir small town thriller that thrives on the performances of its young leads and veteran supporting cast, Blow the Man Down is at the very least, an interesting original story that succeeds in atmosphere and tone. Even if it doesn't feel completely whole enough to be acclaimed. It felt like Fargo-lite, and that's not entirely a bad thing.

6.8/10

While sometimes it felt that a bit too much was crammed into this film, it is always engaging and held my interest. Caught it at Tribecca. Mixed emotions hit me throughout as I enjoyed some very unique components including the music and the beautiful settings, but sometimes a campiness had me feeling like I was watching Desperate Housewives. The two young actresses playing the sisters we're very strong, and held their ground with a group of very seasoned actresses. A lot to like here.

Everyone in Easter Cove, Maine has dark secrets, and they all unravel in a day or two - maybe for the better, maybe not. While the film captures the look and feel of a worn-out fishing village (I found the cinematography spot-on for the environment), the plot seemed a bit thin and contrived. As desperate as all the main characters were for change in their bleak lives, I had a hard time believing that they would have done the things they did, past and present. As the two sisters, Morgan Saylor and Sophie Lowe held their own with an ensemble cast of veteran character actors including June Squibb and Margo Martindale. A distracting enough way to pass an hour or so of social distancing.

Great actors who played their parts very well. The three old gals, who know everything that goes on in town, work their magic up front and behind the scenes. Margo Martindale makes it worth watching. You'll know whether it's your cup of tea in the first 20 minutes. It's not a comedy-drama but the little old ladies will make you laugh throughout.

Now of course reading my summary line you may draw the conclusion that this is not a big deal. But you may be quite wrong about that. On the other hand, the pacing of the movie might also make you draw certain conclusion ... or make you dislike it.

Would be a shame, because this is more than decent overall. The main characters are very well painted (no pun intended) and have their work cut out for them. Depending on your morals you will judge them and their actions differently of course.

Not the best of the bunch for me, but certainly above average ... if you can dig its vibe and its pace.